Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a warm, gooey cinnamon roll bursting with the sweetness of fresh strawberries? Strawberry cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the comforting aroma of cinnamon with the vibrant flavor of juicy strawberries. Imagine pulling apart a soft, fluffy roll, its sugary glaze oozing with every bite. This is not just a breakfast dish; it’s an experience that will transport you to your favorite bakery.
These strawberry cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a special holiday gathering. They invite everyone to gather around the table, sharing laughter and joy while indulging in this delectable creation. The anticipation builds as the rolls bake in the oven, filling your home with an irresistible scent. With each mouthful, you’ll savor the delightful contrast between the warm dough and fresh strawberries, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds.
Key Ingredients For Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the dough’s structure and texture; choose unbleached for a more natural flavor.
- Active Dry Yeast: This ingredient helps the dough rise and gives it that light, fluffy quality; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Sugar: Both granulated sugar for sweetness in the dough and brown sugar for deeper flavor in the filling play vital roles in this recipe.
- Milk: Warm milk is used to activate yeast and provide moisture to the dough; opt for whole milk for richness.
- Fresh Strawberries: These should be ripe and juicy, as they provide natural sweetness and burst of flavor in every bite.
- Cinnamon: A key spice that imparts warmth and depth; use ground cinnamon for convenience.
- Butter: Softened butter is used in both the dough and filling to create richness; use unsalted so you can control salt levels.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Prepare The Dough
Start by warming your milk until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk with active dry yeast and let it sit for about five minutes until bubbly. Then add melted butter, sugar, and salt before gradually mixing in all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
Second Step : Knead
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If needed, sprinkle with extra flour to prevent sticking. Form into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
Third Step : Let It Rise
Allow the dough to rise in a warm area until doubled in size—this typically takes about one hour. While waiting, prepare your filling by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon together in a bowl.
Fourth Step : Roll Out The Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly across the surface before sprinkling your cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over it.
Fifth Step : Add Strawberries And Roll
Scatter chopped fresh strawberries on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer before tightly rolling up your rectangle from one end to another. Slice into equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.
Sixth Step : Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while placing sliced rolls in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again for about 30 minutes before baking them for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with glaze or icing if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like yeast and strawberries are fresh to enhance flavor and texture.
- Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls their characteristic fluffiness; don’t skip this step.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer if needed since accurate temperature ensures even baking.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow rolls to cool briefly after baking so they hold their shape when served.
Preparation Steps
To create delicious Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, follow these easy steps:
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. In another bowl, combine warm milk and melted butter, then add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
3. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
4. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape and spread softened butter over the surface. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar evenly on top.
5. Layer fresh strawberries across the cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling the dough tightly into a log shape.
6. Slice the log into individual rolls and place them in the prepared baking dish. Let them rise again until they puff up slightly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for various occasions. Consider serving them with:
– A drizzle of cream cheese frosting for added sweetness.
– A sprinkle of powdered sugar to enhance their visual appeal.
– Fresh strawberries on the side to complement their fruity flavor.
Each of these options elevates your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls experience!
Storage Tips
Storing your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls properly ensures they stay fresh longer. You can:
– Keep them at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container.
– Refrigerate for up to a week if you want to extend their shelf life.
– Freeze them for up to three months; just ensure you wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in an oven or microwave.
Variations
You can customize your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls in many ways to suit different tastes:
– Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley version.
– Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
– Try using flavored cream cheese as a filling for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
These variations make your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls even more delightful!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for my Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can work well in your recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before layering them onto the dough. This helps prevent sogginess during baking while still delivering that delicious fruity flavor.
How do I know when my Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are done?
To check if your rolls are done baking, look for a golden-brown color on top and press lightly with your finger. If they spring back, they’re ready! Alternatively, inserting a toothpick into the center should come out clean without any wet dough clinging.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time by making it and letting it rise once before refrigerating it overnight. The next day, take it out, let it come to room temperature, then shape and bake your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls as usual.
What is the best way to reheat leftover rolls?
To reheat leftover Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls effectively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place them on a baking sheet covered with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout. Alternatively, you can microwave each roll individually for about 20-30 seconds for quick reheating.
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on the classic breakfast treat, blending warm cinnamon dough with juicy strawberries for a delightful flavor experience. These soft, fluffy rolls topped with a sugary glaze evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, these rolls will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Stir in melted butter, sugar, and salt. Gradually add flour to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface; sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar mixture followed by chopped strawberries.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into equal pieces. Place slices in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg